Pregnancy can be both thrilling and perplexing for women. Expectant mothers frequently have queries regarding nutrition and wellness during gestation, including what drinks to safely consume during this stage of their lives. Herbal teas can provide both soothing comfort and health benefits; however not all herbal teas should be enjoyed during gestation; therefore this article will explore which ingredients pregnant women should avoid when selecting tea options from this source.
Most herbal teas are considered safe to drink in moderation for most women; however, it’s wise to consult your physician or midwife regarding any herb you’re uncertain of due to limited research available regarding how these affect fetuses. It is always wise to be extra vigilant until more is known.
If you’re pregnant and in search of a relaxing herbal tea to help, Chamomile could be just what the doctor ordered. Known to soothe the nervous system and promote restful nights sleep, Chamomile also serves as an effective stress reliever and should be drunk throughout the day in order to ease anxiety and tension.
Green tea is another popular option due to its antioxidant-rich composition that can help your body fight illness. Furthermore, this herbal tea is an excellent source of iron which may prevent low birth weight and preterm labor. Just be careful that you only drink a few cups per day so as to not exceed too much caffeine consumption – one cup of brewed green tea typically has 40-50 milligrams while decaffeinated varieties often have only around 0.4 milligrams!
Be careful when purchasing herbal tea, as most varieties contain an array of different ingredients that could potentially harm a growing fetus. Read labels carefully and only opt for those labeled safe during gestation. Beware that some herbal teas may contain high levels of caffeine when you add sugar or honey – maximum daily caffeine intake should not exceed 200 milligrams, with additional precautionary steps being taken if you regularly drink tea.
Some herbs should not be consumed while pregnant, including nettle tea which can stimulate the uterus and potentially lead to miscarriage. You should also steer clear of parsley tea as this could lead to stomach upset and arthritis pain as well as St John’s Wort tea which has embryotoxic effects.
Red raspberry leaf tea, thought to strengthen and soften cervix before labor begins, is one of the recommended pregnancy teas to drink during gestation. Other safe tea options include rooibos tea which naturally lacks caffeine; and hibiscus tea, proven effective at relieving nausea for pregnant women due to being rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron.